In a world of charcoal-and-silver displays, the Sharp LL-M17W1 is a refreshing alternative in its white case with silver trim. The monitor has a number of attractive features that are offset by some weaknesses.

The attractive case includes a handy handle at the top back for carrying the unit from room to room. The front panel is nearly empty, with only a power indicator, an ir receiver, and a headphone jack. The control buttons are located along the right edge of the case, which might be awkward for a left-handed user; the remote control is an easier way to make configuration changes. A hard plastic cover over the LCD panel protects it from damage, but it appears to have less antiglare treatment than most of the other displays we tested.

Sharp is not overly generous with the bundled cables: You get just an analog VGA cable, a mini stereo cable, and a length of coax for antenna or cable signals. Documentation is above average, with a 64-page printed manual.

There's no auto-sync button (you have to dig through the menus to activate it), but the feature created a jitter-free image with the computer signal. Note that there is only an analog connector and no digital DVI-D connector for the computer. On the television side, the monitor supports the V-Chip for parental control of programming.

Image quality was generally good, with excellent gray-scale response at both ends of the spectrum, smooth color ramps, and great color tracking. But extreme viewing angles do have a large impact on black levels, and noticeable shadows can be seen along the bottom of a full-white screen. The speakers are very good, but the tuner was not as effective on weak signals as some of the others.

Sharp backs the display with a three-year warranty that includes the backlight. Overall, the LL-M17W1 is a respectable entry, though in the end, the Dell and ViewSonic models offer even better value.

Sharp LL-M17W1

Sharp LL-M17W1

Get Our Best Stories!

This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.